Thursina IIBS Features Muslim Comic Artist in An Inspiring Talk Program
"While you are still young, you need to decide what you want to be now. Use your time as best as possible, study religion, and straighten your intentions. Whatever it is that you do, the most important thing is to be useful for the people,” stressed Veby Surya Wibawa, a da’wah comic artist, in front of the students of Thursina International Islamic Boarding School (IIBS) in an Inspiring Talk event at the Harvard Thursina IIBS Hall on May 19.
The Inspiring Talks program is back and this time it's Islamic comic artist Veby Surya Wibawa’s turn to be the main speaker. Speaking to the female students in the 10th and 12th grades, he began his seminar by sharing his journey as a comic creator. Prior to working as a comic artist, Veby worked as a set designer at a renowned television station. However, despite the prestige of his job, he found little peace in his heart. A lingering sense of anxiety overshadowed him, and the demanding work environment forced him to place his religion and worship on the back burner. “This was what pushed me to start preaching and I picked comics as a medium because it can deliver messages in a more relaxed and laid-back manner,” he explained.
According to Veby, comics offer significant advantages as a medium for da’wah. They have visual appeal with simple, eye-catching images and often include humorous elements. Additionally, the language used in comics is generally egalitarian, making them accessible to all manner of audiences. “Complex concepts can be simplified through combining visual art and accessible language, so it can be easier to understand,” he added.
As someone who actively preaches through comics, Veby first undertook an extensive study of Fiqh. This effort aimed to deepen his understanding of the concepts he would later explain in his comics. “It is also so that I can have a peace of mind when drawing, because it requires caution and precision," he noted. Veby, who actively worked at Bikumiku Studio, has published 15 da’wah themed comic books. Additionally, he also actively uploads his works on the @vbi_djenggotten Instagram page. All of his comics are part of his da’wah; amar ma'ruf nahi munkar.
To wrap-up his seminar, Veby gave out 12 of his comic books for the students. He encouraged them to stay engaged with knowledge and to equip themselves with skills that will benefit others. Additionally, he invited them to share and impart the knowledge and wisdom they have acquired during their studies with others.
“These days, da’wah doesn't always have to be done in person; instead, we can utilize the advancements in media and technology. Let’s all strive together for the advancement of Islam,” he concluded.